The first day of school for 2015 kicked-started on a high tone in classrooms in the Gauteng province. The Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by the Minister of Basic Education, Mrs Angie Motshekga, Gauteng MEC for Education, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, and other government officials, visited Soshanguve South High School on 14 January to monitor the state of school readiness in inland provinces such as Mpumalanga, Limpopo, the North West, Free State, Northern Cape and the Gauteng Province. The high-profile delegation was impressed that teaching and learning commenced without delays in the various schools.
On his arrival, the Deputy Present addressed parents and members of the School Governing Bodies (SGBs) about the important role society plays in improving quality education in South Africa. According to Government the involvement of SGBs in schools has always been a cornerstone in making all schools centres of excellence. The Deputy President encouraged parents to stand up for their rights in ensuring that their children receive quality education in public schools.
Addressing the learners during the assembly, Minister Motshekga reminded everyone present that every child is a national asset and needed to be supported to realise their dreams. “You are an important asset to our country; never underestimate your value.” The Minister also motivated learners to start 2015 with commitment and dedication to their school work so that they could, this year, outperform the class of 2014. “You can be anything in life as long you respect your teachers and work hard throughout the schooling year,” remarked the Minister.
Greeting learners with a heart-warming wave of his hand, the Deputy President expressed his gratitude to learners for showing dedication and commitment in acquiring basic education. “We are honoured to be visiting you on this very first day of school,” Mr Cyril Ramaphosa said. The Deputy President told learners to embrace 2015 as the year of success and advised them to concentrate on their books so that they can achieve excellent results in the NSC Examinations.
The Deputy President added that, in order for learners to succeed academically, they have to be disciplined, future driven and ensure that they study hard right from the beginning of the year. Mr Ramaphosa also encouraged learners to read a variety of books for them to become avid readers: “Reading fosters wisdom, knowledge and creativity. I motivate you to make reading a daily habit”.
Mr Ramaphosa further advised learners to abstain from sexual intercourse. “Don’t indulge in sexual activities because you are still young; please concentrate on your school work to attain success. You are the most treasured asset of the nation,” Mr Ramaphosa concluded.
